“It is essential at the beginning of practice to acknowledge that the path is personal and intimate. It is no good to examine it from a distance as if it were someone else’s. You must walk it for yourself.” – Robert Aitken
Most of our daily events are open to the public, and all are welcome to join. However, please note that we do not offer beginning instruction at most events, and zazen (seated meditation) is practiced in silence; so if you are new to Zen practice, we strongly encourage first attending either a beginners’ night or an introductory seminar (see below).
In order to be comfortable sitting cross-legged on the floor, and to minimize distractions for other participants, please wear loose, dark clothing that covers the shoulders, and avoid very bright clothing, prominent logos or writing, short skirts, and shorts. (Chairs are available for those who prefer to sit that way).
If you have previous experience practicing zazen at another center and would like to attend in person, please contact the office.
Our introductory seminar is the best way to get started at the Zen Center of Denver, and is recommended for anyone new to Zen and sitting meditation. During this three-hour class, you can meet our teachers, ask questions about Zen, become familiar with our practice forms and learn how to meditate in a comfortable sitting posture.
Beginners’ nights are offered twice a month on a Tuesday or Thursday evening at 6:50 p.m., and include brief instruction in how to practice zazen (seated meditation) followed by a single 25-minute round of meditation and a discussion period focused on beginning practice.
Teisho and dharma talks with one of our teachers are frequently offered on Sunday mornings and Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Please check the calendar for exact dates and times. We will begin with one or two 25-minute rounds of zazen and then the talk.
For additional information, please contact the office by email (office@zencenterofdenver.org) or phone (303-455-1500).
Intro to Zen audio series
In this short audio series, our teachers Peggy Metta Sheehan and Karin Ryuku Kempe offer brief instruction in how to do zazen (seated meditation) and kinhin (walking meditation), and discuss obstacles to practice (the Five Hindrances).